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Emerald Crab
Mithrax sculptus
Other Names: Green Reef Crab, Mithrax Crab, Emerald Mithrax, Bubble Algae Eating Crab,
Origin: Caribbean
Reef Safe: Usually, zoanthids may be at risk. Jumper: No.Max Size: 1.5
Reccomended Tank Size: Any
Temperature range: 72-86F
Description:
Emerald crabs are one of the few reef safe crabs available to the marine aquarist. They are characterized by a bumpy green shell and two pincers used to pulling up algae. They will cling to rocks to hide against and will be very difficult to remove once added to the aquarium. They normally have a solid green shell when first brought into your local fish store but some hobbyists report their shells turning white after several months. Emerald crabs often can have brown hairy legs depending on their size.
Diet:
Emerald crabs seem to solely rely on algae for their food supply. If the tank has plenty of algae they should need no direct feeding. Emerald crabs are well known for being one the few animals to eat Bubble algae (Valonia sp.), though they will also eat hair algae and other macro algaes.
Temperament:
Emerald Crabs are known to get along well with most reef inhabitants. As they get larger they may start to nip at zoanthids though it seems to be an uncommon trait. Monitor your emerald crabs closely as their reef safe compatibility seems to go on a case by case basis.
Attribution:
Special thanks to Rick Goettel for the above photo!
